Thousands sign petition for Cornwall nation status

> Cornwall Council has written to the Prime Minister outlining the case for greater funding and representation

- LEE TREWHELA Local Democracy Reporter

PRIME Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner have both been asked to consider granting Cornwall nation status.

It comes as more than 12,000 people have so far signed a petition calling on the Government to recognise Cornwall as the ‘fifth nation of the UK; granting the Duchy equal status with Wales and Scotland.

On Wednesday, Cornwall Council’s Liberal Democrats and Independent coalition Cabinet backed a call by the full council last week for Cornwall to receive fifth nation status. A petition started following last week’s move by the unitary authority has surpassed the 10,000-signature mark, meaning the Government now has to respond to it.

If the petition receives 100,000 signatures by its deadline of September 11, the matter could go to the House of Commons for debate.

Being recognised as the fifth nation could give Cornwall extra devolved powers, cultural preservation and official recognition of Cornwall’s distinct heritage, language and historic autonomy.